Observational Research

In the context of health and social care, an observation is probably thought of as a technique for observing the behaviour of people and individuals. True or False

• True

• False

What type of observation would you be carrying out if the participants did not know they were being observed?

• Overt

• Covert

An observer who actively engages in the activity context of the observation, alongside the individual or individuals who are being observed is known as a ...

• Non-participant observer

• Participant observer

This type of sampling involves recording specific behaviours whenever they are seen

• Event sampling

• Time sampling

This formal observation technique is useful for recording the interactions one individual makes with other people

• Event sampling

• Time sampling

• Narrative observation

• Sociogram

To minimise variations in the data that could arise from using this methodology, observers should be standardised in using the methodology before carrying out the observation

• True

• False

Observations generate mainly quantitative data

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Observational research generate predominantly qualitative data

Give one example of how observation is used in health and social care